HKU Launches Gene Therapy Clinical Trial for Chronic Hepatitis B Cure
Key Insights
The University of Hong Kong has launched a clinical trial for a gene therapy aimed at treating chronic hepatitis B infection, potentially offering patients a cure rather than lifelong symptom management.
The new gene therapy works by removing the hepatitis B infected gene from the patient's genetic code to reduce viral surface antigens and halt virus integration with the human genome.
Initial results from nine patients show reduced surface antigen levels, with the trial aiming to enroll 40 patients by the end of 2026.
The University of Hong Kong (HKU) has launched a clinical trial for a gene-related therapy aimed at treating chronic hepatitis B infection, offering patients hope for a potential cure rather than lifelong symptom management. The trial represents one of 41 drugs currently under clinical investigation for hepatitis B at the institution.
Professor Yuen Man-fung, chief of the division of gastroenterology and hepatology at HKU's medical faculty, announced the development on Thursday, explaining that existing medication for hepatitis B patients could only suppress the virus and had to be taken for decades.
Novel Gene Therapy Approach
The new gene therapy employs a targeted approach that involves removing the hepatitis B infected gene along the patient's genetic code to reduce the surface antigens of the virus and halt the integration of the virus with the human genome. This mechanism differs significantly from current treatments that only manage symptoms while requiring lifelong medication.
"If we can suppress the virus and also eradicate the virus if possible, then the patients will not suffer or will have a minimal risk or lower risk of suffering from liver cancer development and cirrhosis or liver failure," Professor Yuen said. "And that obviously will bring hope and a better life for patients."
Clinical Trial Progress
The research team began testing the method on patients in March 2024, with plans to enroll approximately 40 patients by the end of 2026. Initial results have shown promise, with all nine patients currently undergoing treatment experiencing reduced surface antigen levels. However, the team emphasized that more research must be conducted before additional data can be finalized and revealed.
Global Health Impact
Chronic hepatitis B affects more than 300 million people worldwide and serves as a primary cause of liver cirrhosis, cancer, and liver failure. In Hong Kong specifically, approximately 6.2 percent of the population lives with the chronic disease, highlighting the significant local health burden.
Current treatments for hepatitis B can only help patients manage symptoms, leaving them at continued risk of developing liver cancer or other complications despite requiring lifelong medication. The potential for a curative therapy represents a significant advancement in addressing this global health challenge.
Professor Yuen expressed optimism that the new treatment could enable patients to discontinue long-term medication, fundamentally changing the treatment paradigm for chronic hepatitis B infection.